UN 0283 — Boosters, without detonator
Placard: Explosive 1.2D. ERG Guide 112. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 0283 identifies Boosters without detonator — secondary explosive charges designed to amplify an initiating signal into a detonation wave for a main explosive charge. These devices are solid explosive assemblies, commonly cylindrical or pellet-shaped, and remain hazardous through sensitivity to heat, shock, and electrical current even without an attached detonator.
Hazard overview: Upon initiation, UN 0283 presents a severe projection and fragmentation hazard capable of causing casualties well beyond the immediate blast zone, with overpressure effects in the surrounding area. Even without a detonator, these charges are sensitive to heat, mechanical shock, and stray electrical current, making uncontrolled environments particularly dangerous.
Response guidance: Immediately isolate all directions to a minimum of 500 meters (1,600 ft) and deny entry to all unauthorized personnel, extending to 800 meters (2,500 ft) if fire or explosion has already occurred. Do not attempt fire suppression with water or foam; evacuate the area and contact a trained Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team for all response actions.
UN 0283 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 0283
- Projection and fragmentation hazard on initiation.
- Blast overpressure in immediate area.
- Sensitive to heat, shock, or electrical current.
- May initiate other explosives in proximity.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
UN 0283 boosters are odorless or faintly chemical-smelling solid explosive charges, typically cylindrical or pellet-shaped, and may appear tan, yellow, or white depending on their specific composition.
| Also known as | Explosive boostersSecondary explosive chargesIntermediate explosive chargesBooster pellets |
| Appearance | Solid explosive charges, typically cylindrical or pellet-shaped, varying colors (tan, yellow, white) depending on composition. Generally odorless or slight chemical odor. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (explosive solid) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (decomposes violently upon initiation) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction with water, but moisture may affect stability of some compositions |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 0283
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Only trained EOD personnel in full protective gear may approach; all others must maintain a minimum evacuation distance of 1,000 feet from any UN 0283 incident.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 0283 Incident
- CALL 911. Then call emergency response telephone number on shipping paper.
- Isolate minimum 500 meters; stage upwind and uphill.
- Request Hazmat + law enforcement immediately.
- Control ignition sources; deny unauthorized entry.
- Do not approach — projectile/fragmentation hazard.
- Consult current ERG Guide 112 and follow SOP/SOG.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 0283 — Boosters, without detonatorUse for: Quick radio or face-to-face size-up. Short, structured, field-ready.
Use for: Incident command briefing, staging area whiteboard, or pre-entry team brief.
Use for: Quick text to command or incoming units. Fits in a single SMS.